Blink Reflexes

This test evaluates brainstem function and the nerve activity in the head and neck. Blink reflexes can reveal the presence of disorders affecting these nerves and detect brainstem lesions or tumors pressing on the nerves, such as acoustic neuromas. In cases of nerve injury, the procedure can help locate the actual site of nerve damage.

How to Prepare

Please arrive for this outpatient procedure at the time and location given to you.

This test requires no special preparation. You may eat and drink as usual and remain active right up until the time of your evaluation.

What to Expect

You will be seated during this test. A technologist will tape small disks (electrodes) to the surface of your skin around your eyes and nose. Then a physician will administer mild electrical impulses to the nearby nerves and record your blinking responses to these impulses.

The blink reflexes test takes approximately 20 to 30 minutes. You may experience moderate discomfort as the electrical impulses are administered.

You may resume your normal activities immediately.